The Vatican released Sunday the first image of Pope Francis since his hospitalization last February 14, in which he is seen participating in a Mass inside the chapel of the papal apartment located on the tenth floor of the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
Agencia Efe reported that the Supreme Pontiff is in stable condition, although he continues to receive medical treatment and respiratory therapy. The Pope had not been seen publicly for 31 days, after being admitted due to respiratory problems that led to the diagnosis of bilateral pneumonia. Although his health condition has improved, he still requires the use of oxygen with high-flow nasal cannulas during the day and mechanical ventilation with a mask at night.
First image of the Pope after his admission
🔴 This morning Pope Francis concelebrated Holy Mass in the chapel of the tenth floor apartment of the Gemelli Polyclinic. Copyright: Holy See Press Office pic.twitter.com/aV8qO02jbW
– Vatican News (@vaticannews_en) March 16, 2025
In the image shared by the Vatican, Pope Francis appears seated in a wheelchair, wearing his traditional white robe and a purple stole, the liturgical color that symbolizes the period of Lent.
The photo shows the pontiff on his side, facing the altar, without the oxygen cannulas he uses for his respiratory treatment.
The Vatican also reported that, as on previous Sundays, only the text of the Angelus written by the Pope was broadcast, since he is not yet in a position to celebrate the Sunday prayer from the window of the Apostolic Palace.
Health status and evolution
This Sunday no official medical report was issued, but Vatican sources quoted by Efe assured that the Pope’s condition remains stable and that he continues with the treatment indicated by the doctors, which includes respiratory and motor therapy.
They also indicated that the Holy Father has not received any visitors and has spent the day in a balance between prayer, rest and some work activities.
No medical bulletin was issued for Monday, since the doctors at Gemelli Hospital would only report any significant developments, given the stationary nature of his state of health.
“Our physique is fragile, but love sustains us”
In his Angelus message, Pope Francis acknowledged that he is going through “a time of trial” and expressed his closeness to those who are also facing illness or difficult situations.
I join the many sick brothers and sisters: fragile, at this moment, like me
Pope Francis
The Pope also stressed the importance of faith and love in times of vulnerability:
Our physique is weak, but even so, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being there for each other, in faith, bright signs of hope
Pope Francis
He also gave special recognition to the healthcare personnel and those who care for the sick.
How much light shines, in this sense, in hospitals and care centers! How much loving attention illuminates the rooms, the hallways, the outpatient clinics, and the places where the most humble services are provided!
Pope Francis
Finally, Francis thanked the prayers and expressions of support from the faithful around the world and expressed his gratitude to those who are assisting him in his recovery “with so much dedication”.
Expectation of his return to public activities
Buzzy
It has not yet been confirmed when Pope Francis will resume his usual public activities, including general audiences and liturgical acts during Holy Week.
However, the Vatican has reiterated that his recovery is progressive and under medical supervision, so any reappearance will depend on his evolution in the coming days.
The state of the Pope’s health continues to be a topic of great interest among the Catholic faithful and the international community, since, at 88 years of age, any health problem generates concern.
Meanwhile, millions of people continue to send him prayers and messages of support for his speedy recovery.
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